Popular Cities: Bled
If you want to admire the magnificent castles and fortresses of Slovenia or enjoy the country's impressive nature, you should definitely include the municipality of Bled in your travel planning.
The Island of Bled: Church of the Assumption of Mary
Above Lake Bled rises a striking rocky cliff, crowned by the Church of the Assumption of Mary. Traditionally, you reach the island by the so-called Pletna, a rowing boat that has been crossing the lake since as early as 1590. Once you arrive on the island, you will find the church built in the 15th century, which offers an impressive sight with its golden decorations. Particularly worth seeing is the freestanding bell tower, which offers a wide view over the surrounding nature.
Next to the church is the former sexton's house, which was combined with the provost's residence into a single building in the 20th century. Since 2012, it has housed the so-called Potičnica, a venue offering traditional Slovenian potica cakes. These are made of yeast dough with various fillings, rolled up and baked in a special baking tin (the "Potičnica"). For more information on Slovenian culinary specialties, see our guide.
Bled Castle: The Oldest Castle in Slovenia
The history of Bled Castle dates back to the year 1011. Originally, it consisted only of a tower with a protective wall and was used by bishops as a defensive structure. Between 1951 and 1961, the castle was extensively renovated. Today it houses, among other things, a servants' house, an inner courtyard, a historic castle printing house, and a castle wine cellar.
In the castle printing house, visitors can learn about the traditional printing process and create their own souvenir certificate. In the castle wine cellar, wine lovers have the opportunity to bottle a bottle of wine by hand and seal it with sealing wax.
In addition, you can visit the well carved into the rock, tour the Stolp Gallery, and explore the Arnold Rikli memorial room and the exhibition of the museums of the Gorenjska region. Products from the castle beehive also make a special souvenir.
The castle offers insights into the earliest history of Bled and presents the living culture of past eras. During the summer months, cultural events such as medieval days also take place, in which historical scenes are re-enacted.
Castle Chapel
In the upper castle courtyard is the Gothic chapel from the 16th century, dedicated to the bishops St. Albuin and St. Ingenuin. Since the 17th century, baroque figures and wall paintings have adorned the chapel. These depict, among others, Emperor Henry II and his wife. From the castle, you also enjoy an impressive view of the Island of Bled, the town, and the alpine Gorenjska mountains.
If this attraction has further piqued your interest, it is also worth exploring the surrounding mountains through various outdoor activities.
Vintgar Gorge
The Vintgar Gorge is located about four kilometers northwest of Bled. It was formed by the Radovna River and runs between the mountains Hom and Boršt. Along the hiking trail, visitors can marvel at rapids and waterfalls. In addition, two notable structures catch the eye: a dam as well as the stone arch bridge of the Bohinj railway. With a bit of luck, you can watch a train crossing the bridge.
If you would like to experience even more nature, besides the Vintgar Gorge, it is also worth planning several days in Triglav National Park.
More Action-Packed Adventures in Bled
In addition to its historical attractions, Bled offers numerous outdoor activities. In summer, the lake invites you to swim, while diving enthusiasts will find ideal conditions at depths of up to 36 meters.
For thrill-seekers, activities such as canyoning are available. In winter, there is also the opportunity to climb frozen waterfalls under professional guidance.
If you prefer to take it easy, you can explore the forests around Bled through geocaching, take part in a city tour, go on a balloon ride, or go fishing. Horseback riding trips and extensive hikes are also among the popular leisure activities. Bled thus offers diverse experiences for visitors of all ages.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
When traveling to Slovenia, please note the applicable toll regulations and the associated distance-based toll or vignette requirement. You can conveniently purchase a digital vignette online from us in advance. This way, with your digital vignette for Slovenia, you are covered throughout your entire trip. For more information on tolls and vehicle classes, see our guide. If you have any questions, you can reach us at any time by email.
